Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)

A warm-weather oasis that offers the simplest of Parisian pleasures, the Luxembourg Garden provides ample space (60 acres) for sunbathing, people-watching, and activities for kids. When the city bustle becomes too overwhelming, meander around the paths and formal gardens, or just relax with a picnic. Kids can float sailboats at the Grand Basin, ride ponies or take a spin on the merry-go-round, or catch a show in the puppet theater. "This garden is like walking in a French movie," writes one TripAdvisor user. "The garden sections were gorgeous, the gravel paths meandering and enchanting."

If you want to head indoors, head to the Musée du Luxembourg. This museum—open every day from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and until 10 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays—plays host to fastinating rotating collections of 19th-century art. Admission is €11 EUR (around $14 USD) per person. Check out the museum's website for more information. You'll find the Luxembourg Garden in the 6ème arrondissement (neighborhood) off the Odéon métro stop. You can tour the garden for free.